In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) is one of the most well-known assisted reproduction techniques. It consists of carrying out the fertilization process in a laboratory to obtain the embryo that will be implanted in the mother’s uterus.
Nowadays, it is usually performed by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI): biologists select the best sperm from the semen sample and insert it into a microneedle to inject it into the egg. It is a highly successful technique: at IGIN we have a pregnancy rate of 79% per cycle.
However, as with many topics related to reproduction, it is often surrounded by myths and misconceptions. Here we explore some of the most common beliefs, separating fact from fiction.
• IVF guarantees success the first time
Although IVF has been successful for many couples, it does not guarantee pregnancy on the first attempt. Success can depend on several factors, such as the woman’s age, the quality of the eggs and sperm, and other aspects of reproductive health. Some couples may require several attempts before achieving the desired pregnancy. Others may not be able to achieve pregnancy with their own eggs due to insurmountable infertility factors, and require egg donation.
• Increases the risk of multiple pregnancy
This is the case when the decision is made to transfer more than one embryo into the uterus. However, due to the health risks involved, clinics opt for the transfer of single embryos (at IGIN we transfer a single embryo at the blastocyst stage). The decision, in any case, is made in consultation with reproductive specialists and according to the individual circumstances of each patient.
• Only for older women or those with severe fertility problems
This may have been true years ago, but today IVF is used in a wide variety of situations, including couples with uncertain infertility issues, reproductive health problems in both partners, or even for single women or lesbian female couples.
• IVF involves the selection of genetic characteristics of the baby
Although it is true that IVF can be associated with embryo selection through Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis to avoid certain genetic conditions or diseases, this does not mean that all patients choose this option. Furthermore, the use of this technique is limited to reducing health problems and conditions in the baby.
• Treatment medication can cause cancer
This is false, obviously. The hormonal medication used to obtain a greater number of eggs to work with in the laboratory is completely safe. Various studies (Copenhagen University Hospital or the University of LUND) have delved into the relationship between this medication and cancer, reaching the conclusion that there is no relationship whatsoever. An association has been found between infertility and a higher risk of suffering from ovarian or endometrial cancer. But there is no evidence that this is caused by assisted reproduction treatments, but by infertility itself.
• In IVF I can choose the sex of the baby
Gender selection is prohibited in Spain, except in the case of a sex-linked genetic disease that can be transmitted to the baby (such as haemophilia).
• There is an increased risk of premature birth
This is not the case. The risk of premature birth is associated with causes unrelated to assisted reproduction, such as cases of multiple pregnancies or advanced age of the woman, for example. It is true that in assisted reproduction we treat women whose cause of infertility is related to age, which is why there may be a higher prevalence. In these cases, complications such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia increase. These are high-risk pregnancies, but not because of IVF but because of maternal age. But in no case is it related to the method used to achieve pregnancy.
• IVF pregnancies are high risk
The truth is that they have the same evolution as natural pregnancies. The risk in pregnancy occurs when the woman exceeds a certain age, or suffers from previous illnesses, or develops some complication such as gestational diabetes or preeclampsia. All of these factors are unrelated to IVF.
It is important to clear up these false beliefs in order to have a clear understanding and be able to make informed decisions. This will allow us to approach the IVF process with greater confidence. And finally, resolve any doubts and always seek the advice of reproductive medicine professionals. If you wish, at IGIN our reproduction consultations are freeand we will be happy to assist you.